Authorities say the victim was walking south on a section of track in Portland when he was hit by the northbound train.

The victim of a fatal train accident last night in Portland has been identified. Portland Police say Richard Cobb, 54, was struck and killed by a Pan Am Railways freight train at about 7:30 p.m. while walking on railroad tracks.

Authorities say Cobb was headed south on a section of track between Woodfords Street, at Forest Avenue, and Walton Street, when he was hit by the train, which was headed north.

Police say they think the man saw the train and tried to step aside, but didn't move far enough. He was declared dead at the scene.

The death is not believed to be a suicide.

The death prompted Amtrak to use taxis and buses to transport Downeaster passengers around the accident scene.

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